LEAP TEAM

Ben

Owner, Bearded Filmmaker

ABOUT ME: After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in film, I hit the ground running and began LEAP Weddings, which allowed me to do something I truly love – create films, every weekend, with great heart. Since 2006 I have enjoyed every event I have filmed and, more importantly, have developed many long-lasting friendships with my clients, fellow vendors and my staff, who I now consider my family. LEAP has taught me how to improve my skills as a filmmaker, editor, producer, leader and entrepreneur and, as a result, I have been able to build three more companies – The BMP Film Co., Epoch Studio Salon, and Evolve. It’s been a great run so far and, from the looks of it, I don’t really plan to stop running anytime soon.

LIKES: Live music, bad reality television, super sweet dance-offs, lazy Sundays, the movies, beer, traveling

DISLIKES: Complaining, being late

BAILEY

Producer

ABOUT ME: I grew up in the Chicago suburbs but opted for the University of Southern California for Global Communication + a bit more sunshine. Don’t worry, my parents don’t know how to Photoshop me into a row team. After a few years of sunny bliss, I decided that Midwest is in fact the best and have been living in Chicago since! On a typical work day I can be found organizing every little detail for your wedding film or ugly crying at my desk from a touching FOB speech. I’m also the unofficial LEAP baker and will happily whip up my signature cookies for any client that asks nicely 🙂

LIKES: My weiner dog Sal, unexpectedly running into an old friend, piano bars and developing new recipes.

DISLIKES: Rushing through anything, licorice and being interrupted.

Joshua

Filmmaker + Lead Trainer

ABOUT ME: I have been a part of the LEAP team since day one and I think weddings are a great place to tell beautiful stories. My superpower is having the ability to make strangers feel comfortable on camera (and being able to take naps anywhere). When I’m not enjoying creative direction, shooting or editing a wedding you can find me dancing to Latin music or chilling on the couch with Doctor Who.

LIKES: Telling a good story and seeing someplace new.

DISLIKES: People who say what they don’t mean and do what they don’t say.

IAN

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME: I studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago focusing in photography and filmmaking, go figure. I’m most proud of my ability to craft and utilize light in the work I do. My friends say that I’m exuberant and neurotic, and they’re right, but I’m also positive, fun-loving, and a good problem solver. I like filming weddings because I feel as though I can add a perspective onto something that’s already beautiful in so many ways. It’s like adding a layer to the cake, in a sense.

LIKES: People responding positively to something I made, snow outside a window, and realizing I have a day off

DISLIKES: Passing in the right lane, bailing, ugly lawn decorations

Grayson

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME:My career in media began in the Smoky Mountains of NC recording any and all who would happen in front of my lens. After moving to Chicago in the summer of 2017 I became dedicated to capturing priceless moments for my clients that they would cherish forever. I joined the LEAP team in 2019 and have not looked back since!

LIKES: Pulled Pork BBQ Gouda Nachos, Buffalo Trace neat with an orange slice, and my 2017 manual transmission Kia Soul nicknamed “Soulman.”

DISLIKES: Chicago weather from November – April, wet and/or soft handshakes, and my 2017 manual transmission Kia Soul nicknamed “Soulman” (it’s a love-hate relationship).

COLTON

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME: From a young age, I have always wanted to be involved in the world of filmmaking. I obtained my Film degree from Columbia College Chicago, and after graduating, I started working for various Video Production Companies throughout the city. I love filming weddings because the beauty and excitement never ends, and it is amazing to know the memories we capture will be cherished forever. Outside of work, my greatest passion is traveling and I am 5 out of 7 on my goal to visit every continent.

LIKES: Traveling, reading, playing piano, watching movies, and arcade bars

DISLIKES:Waiting in lines

Joseph

Filmmaker

BIO COMING SOON

Cesar

Filmmaker

BIO COMING SOON

Kirsty

Filmmaker

BIO COMING SOON

Nick

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME: I started my career at Valparaiso University for Mechanical Engineering and have been a part of the LEAP team going on three years now. I joined because along with providing a high-quality service I get to have fun. Every. Single. Day. There’s truly no better feeling than nailing the shot! I love finding beautiful compositions of each couple’s special day.

LIKES: Riding my skateboard around the city and soaking up Chicago.

DISLIKES: Cars in the bike lane, dead batteries.

Alexander

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME: I’ve always loved film and graduated from Loyola University in Chicago for Film Production. I’m obsessed with getting the right shot for our clients and have been meticulously perfecting that craft with LEAP. Other notable skills include my extremely small handwriting and earning 4 crowns on Duolingo. Hola! 

LIKES: Live music, travel, gin & tonics, learning new skills, getting the shot!

DISLIKES: Children kicking my seat on airplanes and horrible lighting.

JORDAN

Filmmaker + Editor

ABOUT ME: I’m known for my storytelling skills, caffeine consumption, and sassy, but fun attitude. I went to ILIS for Visual Effects + Motion Graphics, and joined the LEAP team in 2016. Not only do I enjoy working with other talented creatives to capture the joy of a wedding, but I get to piece together the couple’s story, making both the small and the big moments shine on screen. When I’m not working, I’m probably listening to Missy Elliott or watching Riverdale.

LIKES: My friends and cappuccinos

DISLIKES: Filling out surveys

Danny

Filmmaker

ABOUT ME:I’ve had a camera in my hands since I can last remember. I was the little kid running around the block with his mother’s giant VHS camcorder screaming, LET’S DO ANOTHER TAKE! The passion I have for camerawork is something I can never put into words. I’m always looking for the next opportunity and moment to capture. I’m excited to be working with LEAP and I know I’ll only become an even better professional working with these talented individuals.

LIKES: New camera gear, finding candy in my pocket, making new friends, traveling for work

DISLIKES: Finding candy in my pocket after laundry day, the DMV, seafood